Day three of Preventive Medicine 2025 reminded us that leadership in preventive medicine is not a title—it’s a journey. Today, we explored that path through stories of impact, data that drives change and dialogue that bridges disciplines.
From vaccine milestones to landmark women’s health research, from peer mentoring to practical workshops, the threads were clear: prevention is powerful, and leadership in this space must be intentional, informed and inclusive.
Poster presentations continued with fresh insights and rigorous inquiry — a day of interactive dialogue and discovery. The questions raised were as valuable as the data shared, reminding us that research is a conversation, not a conclusion.
The morning plenary, “Vaccines — Successes, Challenges, and the Road Ahead”, took us deep into one of the most significant areas of Preventive Medicine: vaccines. Moderated by Dr. Danielle Craigg, this expert panel examined the past, present and future of immunization. Dr. Helen Chu brought powerful lessons from the front lines of pandemic response and respiratory virus research, Dr. Margaret Ryan connected military readiness with immunization strategy and safety and Dr. Walter Straus shared insights on innovation and safety from the vantage point of industry and academia.
Across concurrent sessions, attendees selected from a diverse menu of topics including the BAP-MI Workshop – equipping clinicians with motivational interviewing tools for behavior change. Other sessions covered research bridging science and policy at the systems level and pushing the discipline forward with data and grassroots engagement. Each session added depth, practical tools, and interdisciplinary perspective to our growing collective knowledge.
In one of the most powerful sessions of the conference so far, the Women’s Health Initiative Plenary delivered a masterclass in research impact. Moderated by past ACPM President Dr. Dorothy Lane, the session featured pioneers who shaped and led one of the most influential studies in women’s health history. Dr. Garnet Anderson, Dr. Marian Limacher and Dr. Marcia Stefanick shared reflections on science, collaboration, controversy, and progress.
The day wrapped with another round of concurrent sessions and continued poster engagement. Yet the most energizing space might have been our final session of the day: Resident & Early Career Speed Mentoring. Watching seasoned experts invest in the next generation was a fitting close to a day built around leadership.
As ACPM’s Interim CEO, I continue to be inspired—not just by what we’re learning, but by how we’re leading. This conference isn’t just a gathering of minds. It’s a call to lead with purpose, act with evidence, and serve with integrity.
Looking forward to winding down with a celebration of your peers during the awards ceremony and a presentation on how successful preventive measures can be in “Moving the Needle.”
Melissa Ferrari, CAE
Interim CEO
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